North Korea: North Korea to mark 75th founding anniversary, Sept. 9

Event

North Korea will mark its 75th founding anniversary, Sept. 9. Most businesses will close for the holiday, and the largest commemorations will occur in the capital, Pyongyang. Tens of thousands of people will probably attend official performances, parades, and a military procession at Kim Il-Sung Square. Officials will also host a Chinese delegation led by Vice Premier Liu Guozhong of the Chinese Communist Party; visitors are likely to stay at the Kumsusan Guest Palace.

Extremely tight security is likely in the capital in the lead-up to the holiday. Probable measures include increased police and military patrols, as well as security checkpoints on arterial roads into the city. Officials could also restrict travel into the city; during previous major celebrations, the government banned all vehicles registered in other provinces from entering the capital. Widespread traffic disruptions are most likely in the capital, particularly around Kim Il-Sung Square and the Kumsusan Guest Palace. Authorities typically block access to nearby metro stations before, during, and immediately after the parade. Additionally, further missile test launches by North Korea are possible ahead of the holiday, though the incidence of damage, casualties, or military escalation remains highly unlikely.

Advice

Do not engage in politically sensitive conversations. Carry proper identification at all times and heed all official instructions. If operating in Pyongyang, confirm business appointments, road status, and transport reservations. Allow additional time to reach destinations, especially Sept. 9.